Functional outcome and comorbidity indexes in the rehabilitation of the traumatic versus the vascular unilateral lower limb amputee

This study compared the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores of traumatic (n = 12) and vascular (n = 12) unilateral lower limb amputees at admission and discharge from a rehabilitation facility. FIM scores that were measured were amputation FIM subscores and total FIM scores. Comorbidity indexes were developed to weight the stump condition and comorbidities seen in both groups. The vascular group was significantly (P < 0.01) older and had significantly (P < 0.01) greater stump comorbidity, but there was no significant difference with respect to length of stay, medical comorbidity score, and amputation and total FIM scores both at admission and discharge between the two groups. Medical comorbidity was significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with amputation and total FIM scores at discharge for traumatic amputees with r = -0.64 and r -0.66, respectively. Stump comorbidity was significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with total FIM at discharge with r -0.64 for vascular amputees. Medical comorbidity was a good predictor of discharge FIM scores for traumatic amputees, whereas stump comorbidity predicted discharge FIM scores for vascular amputees, although not as well. In conclusion, inpatient traumatic amputees may be younger than vascular amputees, but traumatic amputees may not necessarily be healthier or do better functionally at discharge than vascular amputees.